If you’re searching for the ideal city to bring up your family, Edinburgh is a fantastic choice. Offering a mix of historic charm, modern amenities, excellent schools, an abundance of museums and galleries and plenty of green spaces for children to explore, it’s certainly a very exciting prospect for any young family. In fact, earlier in 2024, Edinburgh was named as the best place in the world to raise a family.
However, finding the perfect place to rent with kids can be challenging. As a parent, you’ll want a neighbourhood that combines safety and a sense of community with access to quality school and family-oriented activities, all within your budget, of course. To help with your search, we’ve rounded up the best family-friendly areas in Edinburgh that tick all the boxes.
- Stockbridge
Why it’s great for families
Stockbridge is often considered one of Edinburgh’s most family-friendly neighbourhoods. Its village-like atmosphere, combined with proximity to the city centre, makes it ideal for parents seeking a balance between urban convenience and a close-knit community feel.
Amenities
Stockbridge is home to excellent cafes, boutique shops, and a popular Sunday market where families can enjoy fresh produce and artisan treats. Plus, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and Inverleith Park are nearby, offering plenty of outdoor space for children to play, ride bikes, or simply enjoy nature.
Schools
Stockbridge boasts access to a number of primary schools, secondary schools and private schooling options, including Stockbridge Primary, The Flora Stevenson Primary School, Broughton High School, Edinburgh Academy and Fettes College. This makes the area a top choice for families with school-age children.
Transport Links
Frequent buses connect Stockbridge to the city centre in under 15 minutes, however, it’s so close to the heart of Edinburgh that many residents enjoy the walk.
Average Rental Prices in EH4
Two-bedroom: £1,470pcm
Three-bedroom: £1,855pcm
- Morningside
Why it’s Great for Families
Morningside is a charming and affluent neighbourhood known for its excellent schools, safe streets, and abundance of family-friendly amenities. The area is perfect for parents who want a peaceful environment while staying close to Edinburgh’s vibrant city life.
Amenities
This neighbourhood is packed with family-friendly cafes, bookstores, and local shops. It’s also close to open spaces like Braidburn Valley Park and the Hermitage of Braid, where families can enjoy nature trails and picnics. For rainy days, the Dominion Cinema is a family favourite.
Schools
Morningside is served by several outstanding schools, including South Morningside Primary School and Boroughmuir High School, both of which have excellent reputations.
Transport Links
Morningside is well-connected by bus routes, with frequent services to the city centre in about 20 minutes.
Average Rental Prices in EH10
Two-bedroom: £1,539pcm
Three-bedroom: £2,019pcm
- Bruntsfield
Why it’s Great for Families
Adjacent to Morningside, Bruntsfield shares many of its family-friendly qualities, including excellent schools and a strong community atmosphere. It’s particularly popular among families who enjoy outdoor activities, thanks to its proximity to The Meadows.
Amenities
Bruntsfield has a bustling high street filled with independent shops, cafes, and bakeries. Families often gather at Bruntsfield Links and The Meadows for picnics, playground fun, and sports. The area also has a selection of family-oriented restaurants, making it easy to dine out with kids.
Schools
Like Morningside, Bruntsfield benefits from top-rated schools, including Bruntsfield Primary School and the nearby James Gillespie’s High School.
Transport Links
Buses run regularly to the city centre, which is only a 15 – 20 minute walk away for those who prefer to stroll.
Average Rental Prices in EH3 and EH10:
Two-bedroom: £1,500-£1,800pcm
Three-bedroom: £2,000-£2,350pcm
- Corstorphine
Why it’s Great for Families
Corstorphine offers a suburban feel within the city limits, making it a favourite for families looking for more space and a quieter environment. The area is well-suited to those who value outdoor activities and a slower pace of life.
Amenities
Families can enjoy the famous Edinburgh Zoo, which is in Corstorphine, as well as several parks like St. Margaret’s Park and Corstorphine Hill. The area has a variety of shops, cafes, and supermarkets for day-to-day needs, as well as its own thoroughfare of shops and restaurants.
Schools
Corstorphine has highly regarded schools, including Corstorphine Primary School and Craigmount High School, which are both popular choices among parents.
Transport Links
Corstorphine is well-connected to the city centre by bus, with journeys typically taking around 20 – 25 minutes. It’s also close to the Edinburgh City Bypass and Edinburgh Airport, making it ideal for families who travel frequently.
Average Rental Prices in EH12:
Two-bedroom: £1,342pcm
Three-bedroom: £1,768pcm
- Trinity
Why it’s Great for Families
Trinity is a leafy, quiet neighbourhood located to the north of the city centre. Known for its spacious homes and family-friendly vibe, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a more suburban lifestyle.
Amenities
Trinity is close to the waterfront at Newhaven and the popular Victoria Park, where children can enjoy playgrounds and sports facilities. Nearby, the Ocean Terminal shopping centre offers shops, restaurants, and a cinema, plus trendy Leith is also close at hand if you want to enjoy all the amenities on offer there too.
Schools
The neighbourhood is served by quality schools, including Trinity Primary School and Trinity Academy, both of which have good reputations.
Transport Links
Trinity is a short bus ride from the city centre, with services taking about 20 minutes. The area also benefits from good cycling routes and proximity to the tram at Newhaven, which can get you to the city centre in around 20 minutes, and to Edinburgh Airport in 50 minutes.
Average Rental Prices in EH5:
Two-bedroom: £1,241pcm
Three-bedroom: £1,542pcm
Conclusion
Edinburgh offers a wealth of family-friendly neighbourhoods, each with its own unique character and advantages. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant community of Stockbridge, the suburban tranquillity of Corstorphine, or the academic vibe of Bruntsfield, there’s a perfect place for your family to call home.
By focusing on what matters most to your family, be it proximity to schools, green spaces, or transport links, you’ll be well on your way to finding an ideal rental property in this beautiful city.
If you need help or advice about finding the perfect family-friendly home to rent in Edinburgh, contact a local lettings expert who can fill you in on everything you need to know about renting in Scotland’s capital and put you on the path to finding an ideal family home.
